Bedrooms

• Stylish Shared Bedroom Ideas For Kids
• Bedroom Wall Art Ideas
• How To Decorate A Guest Bedroom
• 8 Ways To Organize A Small Bedroom
• What Makes The Most Comfortable Bed Sheets?
• Princess Bedroom Ideas For Kids
• Jungle Themed Bedrooms for Kids
• Disney Bedroom Decor Ideas and Tips
• Car Themed Bedrooms for Kids
• 7 Designer Bedroom Ideas To Try Now
• What Are Euro Shams? A Guide To edding
• The Bed Sheets Thread Count Guide
• Mattress Shopping Guide
• Bedroom Suite Decorating & Design Ideas
• White Bedroom Design & Decorating Ideas
• Modern Bedroom Design Ideas & Tips
• How to Feng Shui Your Bedroom
• Antique Bedroom Design Ideas & Tips
• Contemporary Vs. Modern Bedroom Design Ideas & Tips
• Kids Bedroom Decorating Ideas & Tips
• Teenage Bedroom Decorating Ideas & Tips
• Bedroom Decorating Tips For Babies & Toddlers
• Kids' Bedroom Design Ideas & Tips
• Tips on How to Choose Colors for Your Bedroom
• Bedroom Decorating Ideas & Tips
• How To Design A Victorian Bedroom Theme

Stylish Shared Bedroom Ideas For Kids

While most parents would love to give each of their children their own room, sometimes it's just not possible. A shared bedroom is quite common, but not as simple as placing two beds in a single bedroom. If the children sharing the bedroom have different interests, then this can cause some friction as far as decorating and furniture choice. These tips and tricks will help to keep the peace when tempers start to flare.

Common Ground

Johnny might like robots, but Jimmy wants the room decorated with sports memorabilia and pictures. Find a common decorative element they both can enjoy such as superheroes, a television show or a particular book and see if a truce can be reached.
Sit the children down and ask them to say or write down all their interests and compare the notes. Also, ask the children to write down what they think their sibling would like in the room. Once the list is created, put them together and compare notes. Ask if they wouldn't mind a compromise. Tell them they can help pick out the decorations together, so they feel they have an equal share in the process.
If one or both don't want to compromise, then tell them that it's just as much the other child's room as it is theirs. It's only fair that they share the common area.

Sometimes Divide & Conquer Is the Only Option

While dividing a room should be a last resort, sometimes compromise just won't be an option. The children are both stubborn and refusing to budge, so the parent must do something to accommodate both their needs. Depending on the size of the room, create a division using a bookshelf or other piece of furniture and give each child an equal section of the room.
If a piece of furniture isn't an option, then divide the room using a different color palette for one side. For example, if one daughter wants a princess motif and the other daughter loves soccer, then use black and white for one side of the room, and pink on the other side. Parents can also to try to incorporate both sets of color preferences throughout the whole room, but using more of the preferred color scheme on their individual sides.
The children can decorate their individual areas however they want. This is particularly good if there are several years between the two children and their interests and personalities are very different.

Bunk Beds vs. Separate Beds

At first glance, a bunk bed may seem like a great way to conserve space in a small room, but don't forget about the importance of sibling harmony and individuality. Bunk beds separate the children into a higher and lower relationship.
On a psychological level, the child on the top may see themselves as the boss of the room, lording over the other child on the lower bunk. Parents tend to let the older child pick their bunk or give them the top bunk because they have safety concerns with the smaller child. So, the upper bunk child is already older and now has a position of superiority. Conversely, animosity may develop, because the smaller child wants to be on the top bunk.
Separate beds give the children a sense of individuality and equal footing. If bunk beds are the only option, such as the case of a smaller bedroom, then consider a top bunk schedule where one week the older child is on the top bunk and the next week, the younger child is on the top bunk.

Keeping It Clean

Trying to keep a room clean with one child is hard enough, but putting two in a single room can be a nightmare for several reasons. Double the children means double the mess and soon clothes, toys and books from both children are strewn everywhere.
If one child is more cleanly than the other, then they can become frustrated by the mess and tempers will flare, especially if they end up cleaning it most of the time. Also, the children won't be able to find things in a timely manner, and it's hard to respect each other's individual belongings if they are thrown about everywhere. Sooner or later, something is going to be broken.
Help alleviate the stress by providing plenty of small bins and drawers for the children to place their belongings in. If they don't use them, then institute a weekly cleaning time where both children clean up their respective areas.
They may not be happy with the schedule, but it will encourage them not to make a mess and keep the peace. While they may not like the arrangement at first, sooner or later the children will settle into a routine and sharing a room will become a normal part of life.
There will be the occasional argument and temper flare up, especially as the children get older, but that's going to happen regardless of any room decorations. The best thing a parent can do is provide a relaxing and peaceful place where the children can learn to compromise together, while learning the value of sharing.

Bedroom Wall Art Ideas

You walk into your bedroom, drop your bags on the floor, sprawl across your bed and relax. Your bedroom is the ultimate personal sanctuary. It should feel comfortable and warm, while providing an outlet for self expression through design. When it comes to choosing the right décor for your bedroom, you have to remember to select pieces that represent you. Not everyone is an art connoisseur, but if you keep these five things in mind, you might be able to win over even the toughest art critic.

• Take measurements: Like all aspects of home decorating, it is best to be prepared. Before you hit the streets for a day of art stalking, grab a tape measure and take notes. Measure the walls you want to decorate, and have a general idea of how you want the art to be laid out. If you have pieces that you want to buy frames for, measure these too. Nothing is worse than coming home with the perfect find, only to discover it doesn't fit.

• Avoid generic pieces: Hanging a favorite classic piece of art on your walls is no crime. But, you don't want to make your bedroom look like the gift shop at your local art museum. Since these pieces are usually the most abundant, and therefore the most affordable, it is easy to get sucked into covering you walls with them. At the same time, the average bedroom decorator can't afford adorning their walls with hand-painted originals and limited edition prints. Check out local art shows and galleries. Not only can you find some pretty incredible pieces of art, you can support the local art scene. Student shows and online art commission websites allow you to pay a fairly low price for one-of-a-kind items. Another great place to pick up wall art is at thrift stores and garage sales. If you're the type of person that loves to find that perfect piece of hidden treasure, this might be the route for you.

• Coordinate with your current style: Nothing can kill a great selection of wall art like a horrible style clash. Make sure you take into consideration the overall personality and vibe of your room. Furniture is just the beginning; you want to make sure that your bedding, flooring, paint and room accessories all go well with your latest artistic additions. If you're rocking some vintage furniture and a wall full of records, you might want to hit your local music store for some classic concert posters. If you're wild about nature, you can pick up some landscape pieces at an art gallery or museum. You don't have to go too crazy with the theme, however. If you want to mix a bit of retro and modern into your design aesthetic, go ahead. It's your bedroom!

• Don't forget about the frames: Taping posters to your walls was fine in high school, but these days you put a lot more weight on looking sophisticated. If you find a great piece of art, match it with a great frame. Coordinate the artwork with the frame design. Paintings often look great in ornate wood frames, while a sleek metal frame is more appropriate for modern poster artwork. Taking your art to a framing store can be very expensive, and no one wants to pay more for the frame than what the frame is holding. Discount framing stores and outlet furniture stores usually offer a variety of frames, matting and backing for your artwork at a much more affordable price.

• Finish it off with a great presentation: Make sure you have provided ample space for the artwork you've selected. Pick one wall to serve as the focal point, and use it to moderate the rest of the placement. Proper spacing and lighting are also crucial. Don't crowd your wall space, or neglect to use natural lighting. Larger pieces should be placed opposite windows to make sure they get the right amount of visibility. If you have several smaller pieces, be sure to space them out across your room, instead of crowding them all in one corner. Make sure that as you hang your wall art, you take a step back to make sure everything is still cohesive.

Your bedroom should represent you. Manipulate the blank space of your walls in your favor. There's nothing wrong with waiting around for the right piece, but don't be afraid to play around with several themes and styles before you settle down with one. Remember, the best pieces of art aren't the ones that cost thousands of dollars, they're the ones that mean something special to you.

How To Decorate A Guest Bedroom

Decorating a guest bedroom is a unique challenge. It's important to remember that a guest bedroom serves different functions than a run-of-the-mill bedroom. Your friends and family members may be weary from travelling, uncomfortable because they are missing the familiarity of home, or persnickety because things aren't done to their "standard." The best place to look for inspiration for a guest bedroom is a hotel. Hotels are in the business of pleasing thousands of travelers daily, and while their floral carpets and bathroom coffee pot may not suit your taste, there is plenty you can learn about satisfying your weekend visitors by following their example.

Stock Your Guest Bedroom With Toiletries 

Someone inevitably leaves their toothbrush at home, or gets their shampoo confiscated by airport security. Instead of leaving your guest to rummage through your medicine cabinet, make a few commonly forgotten items available in their bedroom. These may include shampoo, conditioner, lotion, a toothbrush, toothpaste, over-the-counterpainkillersand soap. Try to make these items as gentle as possible to avoid any allergies your visitors may have.
Travel-sized items are available in most major drug stores, but they are usually disproportionally expensive. If you have many house guests, it may be a good idea to buy these items in their original size and fill separate, smaller bottles with each item as guests arrive. These empty bottles can be purchased alongside the travel-sized sundries at a much cheaper price. Place these items in the bathroom or on a night stand so they are easily seen, but do not detract from the decor.

Guest Bedroom Color Ideas

You want to make sure your guest bedroom always looks presentable, but does not require persistent upkeep. If you host one guest or more per month, you'll want to decorate with darker colors. If you decorate in white, you run the risk of the bedspread or carpet getting stained, which adds to your clean-up time, as well as your overall expense. Stick with darker colors and prints to hide any small messes that may be made. However, do not make the room too dark, especially if it is small. You want to make it warm and welcoming. If you don't host many guests, then feel free to decorate in lighter color schemes. This may actually be the best room to use lighter shades in, as it won't be used as often as the rest of your home.
Choose a carpet that contains several colors or shades, but not one that is printed. You don't want the floor to look like it belongs in a cheesy casino. Berber carpets are best because they are the easiest to steam clean. Shag tends to absorb more stains and odors. This is especially important to consider if you have many guests who smoke.

Use Blackout Curtains In Guest Bedrooms

This is an especially good idea if your extra bedroom faces the sunrise. Many travelers have a hard time adjusting to a new time zone, and you want to make it as easy as possible for them to get their beauty rest. When buying blackout curtains, make sure you buy another, decorative curtain to layer on top. The aesthetic appeal of most bare blackout curtains leaves something to be desired. A sheer or thin curtain would work best, giving guests the option to block the sun completely, or let it gently wake them up while maintaining some privacy. If you can't find curtains that suit you, go to a fabric store and tell them what you are looking for. Most fabric stores have a seamstress in-store or on-call, who will work with you to create custom curtains for a reasonable fee.

Provide A Comfortable Sitting Area

Many guests have trouble feeling comfortable and at-ease in someone else's home. They may be hesitant to kick off their shoes and put their feet on the table in your living room, so provide a space for them to relax within their bedroom. It's not always comfortable to sit upright on a bed, so make sure there is a separate area for down-time.A good idea is an overstuffed chairwith a soft ottoman, or an old fashioned phone chair with a small table attached. This gives guests a place to set their coffee and paper while reading or chatting on the phone. These items are easily found at consignment and thrift stores for a reasonable price.
A small writing desk may be handy as well, especially if you know your guests need to work while away from home. If you're tight on space, squeeze in a plush stool or two to provide an alternate place to sit. Better yet, let a futon double as a bed and sitting area, making the spare bedroom into afunctional den when guests are absent. If you choose to invest in a futon, make sure it does not look sloppy. Too often, futons look haphazardly thrown together and messy. Choose a futon with a handsome frame and sturdy fabric cover to avoid pooling of fabric when the futon is upright.

Entertainment Options In Guest Bedrooms

It is hard to fall asleep in a room that isn't your own. It is also hard to figure out what to do when you are the first one awake in a house where you are a guest. For this reason, it's important to have a TV, radio, and/or books in your guest bedroom. If there is no cable outlet, provide a DVD player with a few selections, including a few children's movies just in case your visitors have little ones. Make sure that the electronic devices are easy to use, and provide instructions if they are not. Invest in a TV cabinet with doors. Some guests may wish to escape technology on their retreat, and a TV cabinet affords them that option.
If you find yourself wandering aimlessly around the home store, just try to think of the last hotel room you stayed in. If you have trouble thinking back to your last vacation,consider what you were longing for on your last trip away from home. A candy bowl? A goldfish? Whatever it is, keep your guests' comfort (and your sanity) in mind.

8 Ways To Organize A Small Bedroom

Quite often, renters and first-time home owners find themselves presented with a lack of space. If this tiny space happens to be your bedroom, you want to make sure you prevent the room from looking cluttered, have storage space for all your items and end up with a nice looking bedroom at the end of the day. When laid out properly, a small bedroom can be cozy, warm and welcoming. Follow these eight easy tips to transform your lack of space into a well designed private refuge.

• Bed position: Bed positioning can really add a lot of space to your room. Placing your bed against a wall and below a window will not only maximize the space in your room, but also provide you with some much needed fresh air, especially if your space is already cramped. Don't buy a bed that is too big for your space. If your room is really tiny, try a full or a queen sized bed. 
• Utilize unseen storage space: Store as many items as you can under your bed and in your closet. It will make it appear as though you have more space than you actually do. Elevate your bed and use storage bins to hold unnecessary items underneath. You can cover it up with a bed skirt, so guests can't see. Over-the-door shoe racks work well in the closet. You can also add some hooks to the back of your main door for coats and bags. Add shelves and drawers in the closet to get your extra stuff out of sight and out of mind.
• Don't clutter shelves and countertops: Cluttering shelves and countertops makes your space appear smaller than it is. If you have special knick-knacks or decorations that you want to put on display, consider having them out in one of the larger rooms in the house. If you find that you have more items than space, try decorative shelf-sized boxes. You can label them to make your personal items easily accessible. Keep the space in your small bedroom as bare as you can, while still maintaining that warm, familiar feel. 
• Hang mirrors: Mirrors make any space feel bigger and brighter than it is. Not only will you have multiple chances to check yourself out in the morning, but they also provide a great service to the size and appearance of your room. Hang them on opposite walls and they will give the illusion of endless space. Full body mirrors and mirrors at eye level are also great for extending the walls of your small room.
• Paint the walls in light and bright colors: Much like mirrors, light colored walls give the illusion of a much larger living space. You don't have to just stick with white, but you do have to stay away from harsh and dark colors. Pastel colors will also provide a much needed optical illusion, and allow you to be a bit more creative with your color scheme. You can also buy room-brightening blinds at your local home store. Mini-blinds let much more light into the room.
• Minimize the amount of wall décor: Cluttering your walls can make your space seem even smaller than it is. Pick a few large pieces of wall décor and hang them in focal point areas of the room. If you want, you can leave a couple of walls mostly bare, and it will stretch your room in that direction. The rule of two is the best practice: If you're in doubt of how many items to hang on the walls, pick your two favorite, and go from there.
• Be multi-functional: Use one of your chests or drawers as a television stand, buy seating that doubles as storage and use shelves to  hold photos, bottles, boxes or collectibles. If you're living in a small space, you have to get creative with what you've got. Don't let any of your furniture serve only one purpose.
• Keep everything clean: If you're already lacking in space, you want to make sure that you clean up after yourself. More important than anything, make sure you don't leave your floor a mess. Don't use your hardwood as another laundry hamper. Making your bed, dusting, and keeping countertops and shelves clean will also make your room appear a bit larger than it is, not to mention make it all the more welcoming.

If you find yourself in a living space that is too cramped for comfort, remember that you are in charge. Don't let the lack of space control your design sensibilities. You can make your space as accommodating as it needs to be. Utilize blank wall space, storage areas, and proper furniture positioning to turn your small space into a workable living space. Remember that it doesn't matter how much space you have, but what you do with it.

What Makes The Most Comfortable Bed Sheets?

Shopping for sheets is no longer just about finding a cute set that fits your mattress. Choosing between dozens of fabrics, countless designs and pesky number systems like thread counts and ply can weigh down your decision. Finding a way to relax in bed shouldn't be so stressful. So, to clear things up (and put you to sleep the right way), IdealHomeGarden.com has put together a Bed Sheet Cheat Sheet. Enjoy your slumber, folks.

Thread Count Definition

Thread count is the sum of horizontal and vertical threads in each square inch of material of the sheet. This "measure of coarseness" and has become the buyers' guide to finding their ideal sheets and towels, the theory being that the higher the thread count, the better the sheet. This theory is based on the general concept that to have a higher thread count, the threads need to be smaller and finer, making them smoother and softer than thick strands (and therefore lower thread counts) of fabric. While the general premise is true, manufacturers have found a way to cheat the system, in a way, providing higher thread counts without actually producing softer sheets. How, you ask? That requires another definition.

Bed Sheet Ply: Why It May Be Fooling You

Plying is the process of taking two or more fine strands of yarn and twining them together. Those two strands are connected and operate as one strand when woven into fabric. However, manufacturers often count each of these plies in multiples, stating that because they were originally multiple strands of yarn, they should be counted as such. As a result, the thread count in these sheets is inflated, but the softness is not reflective of that number. This is why bed sheets should be judged based on their thread count and ply equally. Don't waste money on "high thread count" sheets that won't feel any different than a lower, cheaper set.

What's A Good Thread Count For Comfortable Sheets?

The "standard" cotton thread counts are around 150 TC (thread count), with good-quality sheets starting at 200-plus, and representing a satisfying sleep source for most consumers. High-quality sheets range between 250 and 300 thread count. Many professionals consider any thread count above 400 to be extraneous, and realistically, a single square inch of material will rarely exceed 500 TC, as a matter of physical impossibility. However, many sheets will advertise high thread counts such as these. However, they are often misleading, because manufacturers will count the individual threads in plied yarns for marketing purposes. As a result, a fabric with 250 two-ply yarns in both vertical and horizontal directions could be construed as a 1,000 thread count material. For this reason, shoppers should look at not only the thread count, but also the ply count.

Why Should You Want Plied Sheets?

Cold Weather: Plied fabric is thicker and heavier, making it ideal for thermal sheets that keep you warmer. Sleepers who need a lighter sheet should stick to single ply, but the multiple-ply design also adds a certain texture to materials that appeals to some sleepers. If you want thicker sheets, extremely high thread counts should not be completely dismissed, as the high thread count will prevent multi-ply sheets from feeling coarse or uncomfortable.
Warm Weather: However, if you want standard sheets that are comfortable for all seasons, then stick with low ply count and high thread count. You won't need the multi-ply sheets' thickness, warmth or price tag.

The Best Bed Sheet Materials For You

Ply and thread count aren't the only qualities that make a good or bad sheet. Materials are extremely important to a bed sheet's quality. Long-fiber cottons, such as pima, Supima, sateen and Egyptian cotton, are stronger and less likely to pill. (Pilling refers to balls of fiber that build up on a piece of cloth from wear and tear. They commonly occur in weaker materials, but they do occur to some effect in all fibers.) Other common sheet materials are 100-percent cotton, linen, rayon, bamboo fiber and various blends of polyester and cotton.
Different materials serve different purposes. Combed cotton has short fibers and debris removed, making the fabric smoother. While cotton and polyester blends don't wrinkle as much as other 100-percent-cotton sheets, they are not as soft or porous, so they may be warmer when used. Linen sheets are highly absorbent and good conductors of heat, despite being cool to the touch.

Bed Sheet Weaves

The weave of a material is also a good indicator of its quality, as well. There are three types of weaves in the standard bed sheet. A standard weave has a one-stitch-over, one-stitch-under pattern. Sateen sheets have a sateen weave, which has a four-stitch-over, one-stitch-under weave. A pinpoint weave is somewhere in between, with two stitches over and one under. The standard weave, while the least soft of the three, is the most durable. It has a quality and reliability that helps resist damage during heavy-duty washing. Sateen sheets are the softest, because most threads are on the surface. They are, however, not nearly as durable as standard weave bed sheets, so they should usually be washed professionally. Pinpoint weaves are, again, in between. They are less soft than sateen but softer than standard weaves. In the end, sateen weaves will cost more, both off the shelf and in the long run, due to overall softness cleaning costs.

Good Bed Sheets Can Be Cheap

As you read above, higher thread count does not necessarily mean better sheets. However, manufacturers will often charge you more for these higher numbers. Therefore, do not take cost into consideration when shopping. More expensive does not always mean higher quality. Look at the characteristics discussed above: thread count, plies, material and weave.
Never decide on a set of sheets based on how they feel in the store. The in-store touch of the sheets will never be the same as after the first wash. In fact, sheets become softer after several washes, partially due to naturally softening properties in modern day detergents and fabric softeners. Therefore, let the material blend, not the touch, determine whether it's the right set of sheets for you. You can always bring them back if you're not satisfied. After purchasing a set of sheets, you should always keep the receipt until after the first wash, at which time you can ensure that the sheets did not excessively shrink or lose their color. If they do, you will need a receipt to return them.

Princess Bedroom Ideas For Kids

Princess Bedroom Ideas

A princess room is a design classic that has been a favorite of children from many generations. With a room full of pink and glamour, it's the perfect design for young girls who adore dolls, ballerinas, unicorns, and fairytales. You loved these themes when you were a kid, and  chances are your mother and grandmother did too. 

Before you begin designing your child's princess bedroom, try to remember some of your favorite things. Did you absolutely love your dolls, tutus, magic wands, purple, pink, glitter, and sparkles? Wouldn't you have enjoyed a bedroom that incorporated all of these things? From play dates with friends to falling asleep with a bedtime story, a little glitter can make your daughter a whole lot happier.
Next, simply ask your child what they would want in their room. If your daughter loves ballets, princesses, and the color pink, a princess themed room will light up her childhood. Do what you can to encorporate their wishes into your design scheme, and your budget.

Age Appropriate Princess Bedrooms

One reservation that you may (and should) have is that your daughter will quickly outgrow her room. Kids can be very fickle about their preferences, and when she loves pink one day, she may despise it the next. Even though your daughter will always be your baby, when she's 15, she may not appreciate the surprise of a completely redecorated princess room.


If you buy furniture and expensive items that are age appropriate now, she'll probably outgrow them, so be careful when you select items for decorating your child's room. Instead of splurging on the cutest pink bed and canopy, choose items that can evolve with your child. For example, select a bed and furniture in a neutral color such as white, and use less expensive items such as rugs, bed sheets, and picture frames to enhance the colorful décor of your child's room.
Another way to remain age appropriate is to keep the princess theme as general as possible. If your daughter is absolutely obsessed with a particular fairytale or movie character, your instinct may be to choose a matching theme. If you're on a budget, it may not be a good idea. Over time, your daughter's favorite princess may cease to be her favorite. Instead, her interests will evolve, and she'll be stuck with an outdated room.
To transform a young girl's princess room into a more teenage appropriate look, switch the theme from fairy tale princess to classically formal French design. Many of the ornately detailed furniture pieces, canopies and other luxurious accessories will transfer to this new theme well, but will appear much more age appropriate and sophisticated.

Princess Bedroom Themes

There are several approaches that you can take when choosing a theme for your child's princess bedroom. One approach is to choose a theme based on a particular story or movie character. This decorating technique may make your child very happy in the short term, but in the long run, it is less than ideal.
A character or story themed room is a design approach that is not cost effective since your daughter will probably outgrow her room at a young age. As the adult, you are the decision-making authority, and do you really want to have to decide between spending more money and forcing her to accept a room design that she completely dislikes? By planning your theme strategically and by broadening your theme options, you can avoid the hassle of redecorating down the road. Instead, choose a princess theme based on design concepts, artwork, photography, shapes, or colors such as pink, gold, silver, or purple- all components that can be easily replaced as your daughter's preferences evolve.
To give her bedroom some extra flair, install a canopy that incorporates lacey and ornate designs. If you have the budget, space, and resources, create some play structures in the shape of a castle. These are available in prefabricated kits, or you can build your own using materials and paint that you can find at hardware supply and crafts stores. With a more basic theme, you have increased flexibility when it comes to redecorating.

Jungle Themed Bedrooms for Kids

A jungle-themed bedroom for kids can appeal to boys and girls in a variety of age ranges, so if you're looking for a versatile design with the potential to evolve as your child grows up, a jungle themed room may be a good fit for your objectives.

Unlike other themes that you can create through patterns and colors, a jungle design theme is significantly more resource intensive and requires a substantial amount of effort, even for the simplest design schemes. You should expect to invest a substantial amount of money in wall art or three dimensional decorations in addition to toys, bed sheets, rugs, and additional furniture. You should also expect to reinvest in a jungle-themed room so that the décor is age appropriate and continues to evolve with your child. Eventually, your child will outgrow the jungle theme altogether, so be prepared for a substantial redecorating project that may involve painting in addition to a considerable investment for new décor.
A jungle theme is ideal for infants, toddlers, and young children who are at an age when visual stimulation is most important for intellectual and creative development. Through a sound system, parents can also integrate jungle sounds and animal noises with the theme of the room. Your baby, toddler, or young child might find these relaxing at bedtime or when she is learning to sleep in her room for the first time.

Personalizing Jungle Themed Bedrooms For Certain Ages

Styles can vary between looks that have a cartoon feel or more mature, realistic animals. If you decorate your child's room with a jungle theme, make sure that you find a design that is age-appropriate. That being said, your 16 year old probably won't want wall art that belongs in a nursery. Use literal jungle images for very young children, and mere jungle color schemes and themes for older children. A teenager's room can easily take inspiration from a jungle theme by using greens, tans and browns with a few pops of bright color without using lions, tigers and monkeys on the walls.
Your walls will be your focal point for your room's jungle theme. You can hire a professional artist to paint designs, or you can use prepackaged wallpaper or wall art to decorate your room with animal artwork and rainforest décor. You can even paint trees, plants, lagoons, action scenes, and more. Many prepackaged kits are available at art supply stores or online, and if you would prefer a less permanent option, you can use cardboard cutouts or posters.
Using temporary options for décor such as cardboard cutouts and framed posters should be ideal, especially if you're on a budget and looking for a design theme that can evolve with your child.
More permanent options such as wallpaper and murals can be difficult to replace and remove, and you may need to give your child's room a new paint job as he or she becomes older. Cut-outs and poster prints are relatively easy to replace with new, age-appropriate artwork. If you think that your budget will be constrained, do your best to find temporary décor whenever possible because your child will grow up.

Jungle Themed Bedroom Colors

A jungle theme should incorporate colors such as green, brown, yellow, and blue. A combination of these colors should be the defining elements of your room; however, splashes of red, orange, hot pink and black will also fit within the dominant color scheme. as they're naturally found in jungle flowers and plants.
As a genera design principle, you should avoid choosing more than three dominant colors; otherwise, your room may clash or appear chaotic. Once you've established your basic colors, you should feel free to experiment with subtle additions of other colors, whether you are including images of animals, flowers, sunshine, or water. All of these color choices are appropriate.

Three Dimensional Jungle Themed Bedrooms

A jungle-themed bedroom can provide you with the opportunity to stretch your decorative imaginations. You can limit yourself to the two-dimensional designs on your walls, or you decorate with three dimensional accessories such as stuffed toys, real or synthetic plants, cardboard cutouts, and hanging artwork. In addition to décor, you can build jungle-themed playhouses for your child's room. For example, you can build a pseudo-cave or cabin.
No matter what decorative approach you follow, you should plan to tailor your jungle themed room's décor to match your child's personality and preferences. If your child loves Halloween, realistic and scarier décor may be ideal. In any case, these types of decorations may not be appropriate for younger children who feel scared easily.

Jungle Themes

Several approaches can help you select a jungle theme. You may select your theme based on a cartoon or movie, or you may choose to plan your theme based on a geographic location. You can also focus on certain animals or trees when planning your theme. For the most part, your color options will be the same no matter what themes you ultimately choose to use.

Disney Bedroom Decor Ideas and Tips

Disney Bedroom Decor

If you're looking for a straightforward, quick, and easy theme for your child's room, and if you're stumped when it comes to brainstorming original ideas, consider turning to your child's favorite movie for inspiration. If your child loves Disney, then you're in luck because Disney themed bed sheets, decorations, and stuffed toys are available at virtually all popular retailers, and can be found at discounted prices at many online retailers. 

While classic characters like Mickey Mouse, Donald Duck, Cinderella, and Sleeping Beauty may be anachronisms of your childhood and past, new characters have emerged with new stories to inspire your children's imaginations. These characters include the Lion King, Pocahontas, Aladdin, Ratatouille, Brother Bear, Nemo, Chicken Little, Hercules, Toy Story, Wall-E, Cars, and the Incredibles.
Many of today's popular Disney characters are gender-neutral and appeal to boys and girls, so if your son and daughter share a room, it's still possible to find a theme that works for many personalities and preferences. If your son and daughter aren't fans of the classic Prince Charming and damsel in distress motifs, you can probably find something else through Disney.

Disney Bedroom Decor Themes & Color Schemes

Disney themes provide one-stop-shops for everything that you need to decorate a room. While some decorating concepts require planning to the smallest details, everything in a Disney theme is set up for you. Ultimately, you decide what you buy and how to arrange everything, but when it comes to selecting colors, you won't even need to think twice because the corresponding Disney movie is full of visuals to help you plan your space.
For example, a Lion King theme will consist of brown and yellow shades. If you're considering a Finding Nemo theme, your color scheme should consist of bright blue, green, and orange hues. If you choose to decorate with a Disney princess theme, you can stick to the classic pinks, baby blues, and purples.
When choosing colors for your theme, be careful not to go overboard. Try to stick to three or four colors at most, especially if you have a number of options that work with your theme. If you use too many colors, your room may look cluttered.
On a similar note, avoid cramming too many Disney items into your room. Plan your space ahead of time, and don't expect the Disney theme to do design-work for you. Even though a Disney theme can help simplify how you plan your space, it can have an equal effect in causing chaos in your room. Keeping in mind color and space, be careful not to over-decorate. A room with cartoon motifs can still be streamlined.

Staying Age Appropriate

No matter how much work and money you put into your Disney theme, your child will probably outgrow it. It's inevitable that a once-wonderful Cinderella theme will eventually become old. Don't worry—if you're on a budget, you don't need to immediately rule out the possibility of a Disney-themed room. Instead, invest your money in temporary items rather than permanent fixtures. Instead of buying a Snow White children's bed, consider buying bed sheets and décor instead. Instead of painting or wallpapering your walls with Disney characters, buy a couple of prints, tapestries, and posters. Instead of buying high-end collectibles, opt for inexpensive stuffed toys. Popular and inexpensive decorative items include clocks, pencil stands, lamps, rugs, mugs, and more.

Car Themed Bedrooms for Kids

Car Themed Bedrooms For Kids

Does your son or daughter absolutely love race cars? If so, a car-themed room may be an ideal decorating option for your child, no matter his or her age. If you are working with a large enough space, you can set up a play-area with a toy race car tracks and play mat rugs. To decorate, you can cover the room with wall-décor, bed sheets, curtains, and hanging pieces in your child's favorite colors. Whether your child prefers cartoons, old fashioned cars, futuristic designs, or NASCAR, cars provide a versatile and creative thematic option that can evolve with your child as he or she grows.

Age-Appropriate Car Themed Bedrooms

Depending on your child's age, a car theme can be hit or miss. In all likelihood, your 13-year-old probably won't like the same cartoony designs that she appreciated as a toddler. Instead, she may prefer a vintage and artistic look, so don't be alarmed if she stops playing with her race track that she loved so much when she was in kindergarten.
Growing up is normal and inevitable, so keep this information in mind when you're designing your child's bedroom. Unless you are lucky enough to have a generous redecorating budget, you should plan out a theme that is basic enough to last for the long haul.
Luckily, a car theme is versatile enough to evolve with your child. For younger children, you can work with cartoon-based décor, and for older children, you can incorporate realistic designs, play structures, and NASCAR themes. For a truly spectacular idea, you may want to mount a video game console along with a projector to create an extremely enjoyable atmosphere.
If you are considering an entertainment center, make sure that your child is mature enough for car-racing video games, and teach your child the importance of balancing play-time with school and study time. You might even want to establish a set of rules ahead of time in order to maintain control in your child's bedroom. No matter what themes you select, make sure that you factor your child's unique needs and maturity level. He or she may not be ready for video games, sensory overload, or an entertainment-intensive environment. You know your child best, so you should trust your judgment.
If you're not sure whether your child will outgrow a car theme, you can opt to use temporary and inexpensive décor as opposed to expensive furniture items that may be difficult to replace. For example, you can mount cardboard walls to a bed to create a sleeping area in the shape of a race car. You can also use framed or non-framed wall posters instead of more permanent wallpaper and wall murals. You can also use toys and inexpensive play structures to set the tone of your child's car-themed bedroom. Using temporary options, you can go from a car theme to something else in less than a few hours.

Car Themed Beds

If you have a toddler or child in elementary school, you may be considering a race car bed. These types of beds are typically twin size and smaller and are most suitable for children who are under the age of 10. In general, race car beds are available in a variety of colors, shapes, and models with the most common colors being red and blue. Some of these beds are even convertible, meaning that you can change their build to suit a variety of age ranges. For example, you may be able to raise and lower the sides of your bed to accommodate a young toddler, and as your child grows older, you may be able to elevate the bed higher off the ground. If you have two children sharing a room, you may want to loft one bed and place the race car bed underneath. When it comes to race car beds, a variety of styles are available, so you can find models that parallel cars that are available on the market, or you can opt for a look that is more vintage.
For the most part, a sturdy race car bed will cost between $300 and $500 and will require replacement when your child grows older. If you want to prolong the life of your child's bed, you should consider an adjustable model which costs between $500 and $1,000. Although the second type of bed is more expensive, it has a longer lifespan. To compare, a basic child's bed costs between $100 and $300. Some toddler beds may even cost under $100.
If you feel hesitant about buying a car-shaped bed, you can consider temporary décor such as bed sheets and cardboard side panels. Race car bed sheets are available from a variety of retails in many colors for under $100, and you can even make your own race car bed panels as a low-budget family art project. If your budget is higher, and if you are looking for a more permanent option, you can use real wood panels, and you can even build your own headboard.

Car Themed Play Mats

Car-themed play mats serve a dual purpose as toys and as functional bedroom items. They are ideal for toddlers and kindergarteners who are beginning to play with basic toy cars. With a play mat rug, your child won't enjoy the bells and whistles of ramps and remote controls; but if your child enjoys patterns and puzzles, then this might be an enjoyable option. Car play mats are available in a variety of sizes and range in cost between $30 and $100 depending on size and material.

Car Themed Bedrooms For Older Kids

As your child ages, he or she will demand more challenging and interesting stuff. At this age, your child can enjoy mature themes, video games, televisions, remote controls, bells, and whistles. Before you go out and buy this expensive stuff, make sure that your child is actually ready and mature enough to handle these expensive items. At this age, your child's biggest priorities are school and healthy development, so even if your child is old enough to have a television in his or her room, you should create an environment that is healthy and practical for studying and homework.

7 Designer Bedroom Ideas To Try Now

Sometimes it can be hard to decorate your bedroom. Finding the right combination of color, décor and furniture is challenging, to say the least. Luckily for you, there are plenty of experts out there who thrive on decorating personal space, and there's no limit to what you can do. Read on to learn what seven design specialists do in their own bedrooms.

Dylan Lauren: Daughter to the ever-famous Ralph Lauren, Dylan's bedroom is as minimalistic as her dad's designs. She sticks with a simple two-color palette of blue and white. Her canopy bed adds a romantic touch to the mix, and it's dressed with gingham sheets that her father designed. For a bit of décor (and a snack), Dylan also stashes stocks sweets around the room, such as lollipops and a gumball machine. It adds to the overall innocence of the room's design aesthetic, as well.

Peter Som: A fashion designer whose collections have appeared in publications like Vogue and Harper's Bazaar, Peter Som is known for his effortless elegance. He likes to keep things simple in his own room, where there are absolutely no decorations on the walls. Instead, he puts emphasis on the bedding and furniture. His patterned sheets, for example, use varying degrees texture and soft colors, such as beige, gray and white, but they add just the right amount of dimension to the space.


John Robshaw: Perhaps the exact opposite of Peter, fabric designer John Robshaw loves elaborate prints and decorations. His room features decorative sheets, bold colors and all sorts of found objects from his worldly travels: places like the Middle East and Asia. You could almost call his room hippie-chic, with a bohemian feel toned down a bit by a green-blue-brown color palette. The space is inherently "John."

Bryan Batt: Actor Bryan Batt (known for his role on AMC's "Mad Men") lives in New Orleans, and enjoys a bit of organized chaos in his room. He refuses to make his bed, but makes that sloppiness work to his aesthetic, with soft beachy pastels in gray and beige. Everything is, though, of the highest quality. His sheets are 620-thread-count sateen, and his brass floor lamps come straight from his own store, Hazelnut.


Rachel Roy: Fashion designer Rachel Roy enjoys more than just a bed in her bedroom oasis. A hammock from her Jamaican vacation hangs wall to wall for added relaxation. Her color preferences play on Middle-Eastern influence, with browns, oranges and purples popping up everywhere. The cherry on top is the hammock itself, with bold stripes in several colors. According to Rachel, the room is her cocoon, and she wants it to work as a positive place to recharge.

Kelly Wearstler: Unlike Rachel, designer Kelly Wearstler believes the bedroom should be a soft, restful space, easy on the eye. Her palette is soothing, with a completely beachy, washed-out feel, including soft beige walls and off-white bed sheets. She does, however, like to vary up her bedding. She mixes prints, designs and even brands to create a look that is amazingly unique and entirely her own.


Thomas O'Brien: Designer Thomas O'Brien doesn't use his bedroom. Well, at least not for sleeping. His living room works as his bedroom, because he realized that the sizing was better and that he could create a whole new design concept based on it. He recommends buying at least two slightly different sheets and changing them out two or three times a week. According to him, it's the cheapest and easiest way to change up the personality of a room.
Who better to take bedroom décor advice from than the experts themselves? With these seven different takes on design, you can pick and choose to find the right combination of color, character and format for your own space. Because there is one thing that all the experts agree on: Your bedroom should be all about you.

What Are Euro Shams? A Guide To Bedding

So What Are Euro Shams Anyway?

There are pillows that are slept on, and there are those primarily for decoration. Decorative pillows often have a covering called a sham, but not all pillows are created equal. There are two main sham deviations: American and European.

Standard decorative American pillows fit a 20-by-26-inch sham, appropriately called an American sham, but European pillows fit a 26-by-26-inch sham called, of course, a Euro sham. Trying to fit the wrong sham on a pillow is an exercise in futility. The sham will either be too tight and won't close, or it will stay baggy and wrinkly. Ideally, though, the sham should fit tightly around the pillow, but still maintain the pillows original shape.

Why Should You Use A Pillow Sham?

Beds can be boring with only the bed sheets covering the main sleeping pillows, but decorative pillows are not necessary. On the other hand, pillows with interesting and decorative shams can bring a bedroom to life with vibrant colors and break up the bland linearity of the bed spread. Euro shams come in a variety of colors and decorations. You can often find several different designs and fabrics to fit the needs of your room. Shams can complement the design of a bed or couch, and they can match window treatments. Euro shams also tend to have a 1-inch fringe or tassels around the pillow. They can be purchased from a department or home store or made by hand with a pattern, fabric and a little sewing knowledge. Sham pillows are either placed behind the main pillows as a backdrop or placed in front of the primary pillows along with a duvet cover.

How Much Does A Euro Sham Cost?

Since there is such a wide variety of Euro shams available, the prices vary greatly. A cotton sham with a plain decoration can cost as little as $8 a piece, but designer shams made of silk, satin or chenille can range from $40 to more than $100 for custom designs. The choice should depend on what kind and color of fabric the bed sheets are made of. A satin sheet set should be complemented with an equally luxurious pillow and sham.

How to Decorate With Euro Shams

There is no reason why a bed cannot have a mix of Euro and American shams. European countries and North America may not always see eye to eye, but in sham form, they complement each other rather well. Two rectangular American sham pillows bordering a European sham pillow of similar design and color is a perfect addition to a bedroom's décor. Some people cover their beds with many pillows, until it looks like a fabric factory exploded on their bedspread. This is generally considered overkill, as the pillows should always have both a decorative and a functional side. A king-size bed should have three decorative shams, a queen size should have two, and a twin size should only have a single sham. The pillows are not meant for sleeping, but are rather placed under the primary pillow for support and height. If pillows are thrown off the bed and not used, then there are too many on the bed.
While beds are supposed to only have a set number of decorative pillows, that doesn't mean there has to be only a set number of shams. Feel free to take one sham set off and replace it with a new one every now and then to keep the décor changing. This can include special shams for Christmas and other holidays or seasonal changes. Several shams can be stored in a single drawer and taken out whenever needed. This is much less expensive than buying and storing different pillows.

Where To Use Shams

While the bedroom is primarily the area where the sham pillows are used, they can be taken out of the boudoir and used to accent other pieces of furniture. Place a few Euro sham pillows on a large couch to help accent the couch's style. Place one on a wingback chair or in a window sill to bring a little color and flair to a bland living room or kitchen. The pillows can bring people's eyes to furniture and be great conversation pieces.
Euro shams have been around since the late 1800s, providing people with a way to bring out the colors of their furniture and create a vibrant bedroom. There are hundreds of designs to choose from, so there is bound to be one that turns that average bedroom into design powerhouse.

The Bed Sheets Thread Count Guide

People spend about one third of their life snuggled under the covers of their bed, so many want the most comfortable experience they can get. They get that comfort by purchasing luxurious blankets and sheets with the highest thread counts. Thread count is a complex subject that has several nuances, many of which people don't think about. They see a higher thread count and assume that it's the best, but that can be far from the truth. 

What Is The Definition Of Thread Count?

The definition of thread count is simply the number of threads used in a square inch of fabric on the sheets, including both the horizontal (weft) and vertical (warp) threads. Many believe that a higher thread count translates to softer, higher-quality bedding, but that isn't always the case. There are two main types of thread count: one-ply and two-ply.

• One-Ply: This is what people want when they think of high thread count. This means there is only a single ply of yarn creating the blanket, so the thread count is definitively accurate. For example, a 300-count one-ply bed sheet has 300 threads in a square inch.
• Two-Ply: People often feel cheated when they learn they purchased two-ply bedding, based on thread count. With a two-ply sheet, two sections of yarn are woven together, and the thread count of each layer is added. For example, a 300- count two-ply sheet actually has two 150-count layers. However, these can be advertised by the added numbers.
• Further Layers: While one- and two-ply are the most common, sheets can also have more layers, thus diluting the thread count further. There have been reports of 400-count sheets that are actually just four 100-count layers.

Bed Sheets' Thread Count: What A Higher Thread Count Really Means

Most sheets purchased in the United States have a thread count in the low 300s. Anything over 400 likely has more than one ply, so the thread count is a misleading representation of the sheet's structure. Sheets with more plies are more durable, but does higher thread count mean higher comfort? It depends on several factors.

• Fiber Quality: Most sheets are 100 percent cotton fiber, but can be made of other materials as well, such as silk, satin and linen. Each of these fabrics feel different and offers different comfort levels. A 300 thread count silk blanket may feel much more comfortable than a 400 count cotton blanket. Cotton is the most used fabric and there are different levels of cotton from the basic to the more luxurious Egyptian and Pima cottons.

• Yarn Size: Yarn comes in many different sizes, and the higher the number, the finer the yarn. Finer yarn means lighter and suppler sheets. Yarn sizes can range from the less expensive 40s and 50s and go all the way to 100. There are yarn sizes that are higher, but they're rare, and the bedding is very expensive.

• Finishing: When the sheet is created, it should be finished usually by singeing and mercerizing. Singeing involves burning the ends to prevents the development of pills caused by fuzzing. Mercerizing involves treating the fabric for strength and increased luster. Lower quality sheets will not be finished.
• Weave: Sheets are created using a variety of weaves which have their own looks and feel. Flannel weave is supple, soft and good for warmth. Jersey is elastic and flat. Percale weave gives cotton an almost silk like feel. Sateen give the fabric a more lustrous look and is incredibly soft. The feel of a flannel sheet is considerable different than that of a percale sheet even if they have similar thread counts.

The most comfortable sheet will have a single ply thread count of about 400 with at least two to three additional plies for durability bringing the thread count to about 1,200. It will be made of a high quality material such as Egyptian cotton and have a fiber size of 120. This will be incredibly soft, durable and very expensive. For people who do not want to spend a lot of money, a cotton sheet with a mid-300 thread count and a second layer with a fiber size of 80 will create a comfortable feel, but will not be as expensive as the highest quality sheets.

Is Thread Count Important?

A 300 thread count sheet can feel much better than a 1,000 thread count sheet depending on how they are made. Thread count is only one metric that should be used when choosing bedding, but it has been touted by marketers and advertisers to the point that people assume a high thread count means maximum comfort. Thread count is only a number, and can be easily manipulated to create high thread counts at low quality, so when choosing sheets, its best to take in the whole picture and not just the thread count number.

Mattress Shopping Guide

We've all heard the story of "The Princess and the Pea." True royalty must be in possession of both a tender back and the ability to shop for the perfect mattress. Most of us have a run-of-the-mill tolerance for peas under our bed, but that doesn't mean that we want to settle for anything less than the perfect mattress. Remember that you spend about one third of your life sleeping, so choosing a mattress that's right for you is essential. When you're ready to invest in a new mattress, there are several things you have to keep in mind.

When To Get Rid Of Your Mattress

If you're like the rest of the US, you've probably had the same mattress for anywhere between six to 10 years. Since our bodies are constantly changing and becoming increasingly in need of sleep support, it is a good practice to swap out your mattress every three years. Buying a mattress is no affordable venture, however, and you want to make sure that you come equipped with the right knowledge. If you know you won't be able to afford a new mattress very often, then investing in a high quality mattress every five to 10 years is essential. Use this mattress shopping guide to learn how to spot the right and wrong mattress for you.

Questions To Ask When Mattress Shopping

Buying a mattress is no affordable venture, and you want to make sure that you come equipped with the right knowledge. Here are a few questions you should ask when you begin the search:

• What's Better: Box Spring vs. Memory Foam? Although memory foam mattresses seem to be on the cutting edge of comfort technology, many people wonder if they really offer additional support for the sleeping body. The answer is - yes! A memory foam mattress will contour to your body, providing both comfort and support. Unfortunately, they also tend to shrink and shrivel with age, and are much more expensive than the springy alternative. Box springs aren't your enemy, and can still allow for a pleasant night's sleep if they are made well and replaced regularly. The quality of the brand is key, with lower-end mattress makers often skimping on comfort. These low-end mattresses also tend to lack in support, so make sure you do your research before you shop.
• How Much Does A New Mattress Cost? You can find a generic mattress set online for under $300, but that doesn't mean you shouldn't spring for a nicer bed. The average mattress costs a little under $1000. Since it is a good idea to change your mattress every few years, this can get expensive, especially if the whole family is in need of a mattress upgrade. Set a price range that is affordable to you, and do your research. Wait for your local mattress store to have a sale, and watch the paper or online ads for department store bargains and deals.
• Where Is The Best Place To Buy Mattresses? Online Or In-Store? As is usually the case, the internet can offer some great deals on mattress sets. Most sites will even ship for free if the price is right. However, if you are looking for a great deal, it might be a good idea to stick with good, old-fashion, door-to-door shopping. Department stores will often jack up the price of the mattress several hundred dollars over the list price. They will also have a limited selection, and more likely than not, try to sell you some sort of mattress, pillow top, bedding combo. Mattress stores will offer the largest selections of name brand mattresses. They are also notorious for price-busting sales. Keep your eye out for any sort of "yearly sale" or "liquidation". Club stores are your best bet for a great deal, but they have a very limited selection, and you often can't try them out in store.
• What Size Mattress Should You Buy? Mattresses come in all shapes and sizes, and although some of us may want to sleep in a king-sized, heart-shaped water bed, this might not appeal to everyone. There are three things to consider when selecting a size: the square footage of your bedroom, your favorite sleep position, and whether or not you'll be sharing. If you're a bachelor in a small bedroom with a pension for light tossing and turning, you might want to opt for a full or queen sized bed. King sized and larger should probably be reserved for couples and extra-large bedrooms. Twin beds are traditionally for small children, but are also a safe bet for guest bedrooms. Keep your existing furniture in mind when you're shopping for a mattress, you don't want to limit or crowd your space.

Mattress Shopping Mistakes: What To Avoid

Discount and store-brand mattresses might be easy on your budget, but they won't be easy on your back. When it comes to generic mattresses, avoid memory foam at all cost. Reliable discount memory foam mattresses are few and far between, and before long, you'll end up having to buy an expensive pillow topper, or an entirely new mattress.
Remember that you spend more time lying on your mattress than you spend eating at the dining room table, sitting on your couch, and driving your car. Don't settle for something that won't provide you with a sound night's sleep. We all have the right to act like the princess and the pea from time to time.

Bedroom Suite Decorating & Design Ideas

What Is A Bedroom Suite?

You may recognize the term "bedroom suite" from your hotel stays. When you stayed in a regular room, you had access to a bed, dresser, cabinet, desk, and bathroom to provide you with the basic amenities while you were away from home. When you stayed in a suite, you had so much more: an entertainment center, a few couches, a work center, and attached room where you could comfortably hang out and host parties.

In contrast to a basic bedroom, a suite is a place where you can do so much more than just sleep and get ready for work. Imagine a luxurious space with comfortable couches, a high-definition television, and large windows with a beautiful view. Now, imagine this room in a context other than a hotel - in a bedroom, for example-in your bedroom.
If you're lucky enough to have a medium to large bedroom, you will have enough space include more than just the basics of a bed, dresser, and shelving unit. You can set up couches, work areas, and entertainment centers for a luxury suite.
If you spend a lot of time hanging out in your bedroom, you may want to consider converting your space into a suite. This type of design is practical, functional, and luxurious. You'll want to spend hours in your bedroom area, and if you have roommates, your suite might even become a hangout spot. You've invested substantial time and money into your home, so why not love it even more? After all, you do live there.

Suite Designs

Suites aren't right for every household. In some homes, the rooms are too small, and in others, where people spend more time in common areas, suites do not make sense.
Suites do make sense in large homes where the residents spend significant time in their bedrooms. If you rent out a room to a tenant, for example, you may want to design a suite as an all inclusive living space with a bathroom and kitchenette, if possible. With this type of arrangement, you may be able to charge higher rates for rent, and you will be able to give your tenant autonomy. If your kids share a bedroom, you may want to give them a suite with an entertainment center so that they have their own space. Finally, you can reclaim your living room as a clean and relaxing space for adults.


In some homes, suites are part of the overall architecture. Your home may include several bedroom suites with an attached bathroom. Usually, these homes are rare, large, and expensive. The more likely scenario is that your home includes only one bedroom suite - the master bedroom.
Typically, household suites have a design that is similar to rooms in hotels. One room is compartmentalized into different sections based on the arrangement of walls and architectural boundaries. Even though suite is technically one bedroom, it may be separated into distinct areas-into an entertainment area and a sleeping area, for example. These types of suites also have attached bathrooms, and sometimes, even a kitchenette with a space for a refrigerator, microwave, and small cooking area. If you do have a kitchenette or bathroom in your suite, make sure that the area is properly ventilated.
Depending on the size of your bedroom, you may be able to convert a regular sleeping area into a suite-you just need a room that is spacious enough. You may need to use room dividers and furniture to improvise a compartmentalized space, or you may decide against dividing the areas of your room and instead, design the area as a loft. No matter your design approach, you need a space that's large enough to comfortably fit everything.
Just image the worst case scenario: if you try to cram a wardrobe, bed, couch, entertainment center, and more into a small bedroom, your space will look crammed and tacky. Furthermore, an overcrowded space won't be a functional place where you will want to spend significant time. You'll feel stressed, and you'll have trouble completing even the most basic tasks since your mobility will be limited. Be economical about your space when deciding whether a bedroom suite is right for your lifestyle and home.

Colors

Choose a color scheme based on your room's overall design concept. As a general design principle, choose no more than three or four colors. Otherwise, the room may clash and appear chaotic. Choose bright colors or darker ones-it all depends on the look that you are trying to achieve. In general, if you are designing a room as you would a loft, you will probably want to use brighter and lighter colors. By using darker colors, you may cause crowding in your space, when your goal should be to make the room appear as large as possible.
If you have a loft-style room, you can use color to differentiate your space. For example, you can paint a bright colored accent wall behind your entertainment center to create a subtle division between the section where you sleep and the area where you hang out on the couch.
If your suite is compartmentalized into sections, you can use a color scheme in each different area depended on how isolated the different parts of your room are.

Lighting & Mirrors

If you have a loft-style, spacious bedroom, you will want to make your room as bright as possible. A bright room will help your space appear clutter-free, and bright colors for your furniture, walls, and floors will help you accomplish this objective. Skylights, large mirrors, and sliding doors will help create a brightly lit space throughout the day, and recessed lights enable the dispersion of overhead lighting that is equally bright throughout the room. Use sconces, table lamps, and floor lamps minimally.
If you have a divided bedroom suite, you have more flexibility when it comes to your lighting. You can use more decorative lighting elements like sconces, table lamps, and floor lamps, and you can allow your room to be dimmer. Regardless of the amount of light in your space, make sure that your bathroom and kitchenette areas have bright lighting.
Use the reflective property of wall mirrors and mirrored sliding doors to enhance the dispersion of light throughout the room. A mirror can help your space appear bigger and brighter, especially for a loft design.

Furniture

Even if your suite is compartmentalized, you should make sure that the different areas of your room coordinate with one another. You can have a little diversity in your décor, but overall, no matter how eclectic your furniture is, it needs to be part of a cohesive design-through unifying elements such as a trend, color scheme, material, or style.
If your suite is part of a loft design, you should make a greater effort to unify the furniture in your room, since the entire space is visible at once. Try to stick to one, and use the same color scheme for your sleeping and hangout areas.
To simplify your search for furniture, showroom sets are available for suites. You may also be able to preview how the room will look online, in a catalog, or in the store.

White Bedroom Design & Decorating Ideas

White Bedroom Design Concept

Few designs are brighter than color schemes and patterns with a white base. In the artistic and literary world, the color white is associated with purity and serenity--and it's true-a white color scheme is one of the best ways to create a comforting, breezy, and relaxing space.

Bright and bold colors are common interior design themes for contemporary bedrooms. Pastels, earthy tones, and even bright purples, pinks, and teals all create trendy looks, but none of these tones can replicate the serene look and feel of a white bedroom. For a truly unique, simplistic, and streamlined environment, consider decorating your bedroom with a white theme. Incorporate your favorite modern, classic, or contemporary structural elements, but rely on the color white to guide your overall effect.

An All White Bedroom: Is It Right for You?

A white theme can help you create an elegant, streamlined, and relaxing space; however, the color is not right for all lifestyles. Make sure that you evaluate your needs before giving a bedroom a white theme. Otherwise, your space will be more stressful than relaxing.

• Keep in mind that white surfaces can become dirty very easily, especially if you have kids, pets, or extensive foot traffic through your bedroom. Over time, with age, white sheets may turn yellow, especially if you need to wash them often. If you have white furniture, you will need to make an extra effort to wipe down surfaces often since dust and dirt may show.
• You may want to stay away from a white theme in kids' rooms. Children are messy, especially if they play sports or enjoy arts and crafts. If you have a busy and active lifestyle and cannot commit to keeping your room as clean as possible, then you may want to base your theme around a darker color that won't make dust and dirt as obvious.
• If you would like a white bedroom in your home, consider using your theme in your spare room or guest area. Typically, these rooms are not used as often, so you won't need to worry about cleaning, and you can even keep items covered if you are concerned about dust. Give the room a quick dusting when it needs to be presentable.

How To Decorate With White

There are several ways to achieve a white color scheme. You can incorporate white in your bed sheets, pillows, furniture, walls, lights, curtains, rugs, floors, and décor. For an extreme look, you can make everything white, cream colored, and off white.
Choose one white or three subtly different shades of white to create a uniform effect. If you'd prefer to incorporate other colors such as gray or black, you can use accent details and decorative items to simply make white your dominant color. Including other colors will help bring versatility and contrast to your white color scheme. Also, adding one or two other colors can help create the look of a specific theme. While black and white is great for modern design, royal blue and white resembles a Grecian villa. Red and/or green and white is a great way to add holiday decor to your bedroom, and purple or pink and white creates the feel of a fairy tale or princess themed room.
If you choose to work with shades of white, choose no more than two or three shades. Otherwise, your room may appear chaotic. Even if you choose a few shades of white and off-white, make sure that you pick one shade as your dominant color to cover 50 percent or more of your room. The varying shades should be a subtle addition to a white color scheme.

Although most design theories suggest that you should select at least two colors for complementing affects, it is acceptable to stick to one additional shade for a white bedroom. You can use other design elements such as natural and artificial light to add varying tones to the look of the room.
You can even include subtle patterns on your decorative elements on your linens, pillows, and curtains. Just be sure to avoid bold prints that may overwhelm the space with other colors. White should be your dominant theme throughout the room.

Seasonal White Bedroom Decor

White bedrooms are as practical as they are aesthetically pleasing. Seasonally speaking, white is an ideal color choice for the summer and spring. When the temperature is hot, heat transfers more easily through darker colors. On the other hand, colors such as white will reflect light.
With a white bedroom, your space will feel fresher and cooler. White colors and patterns also tend to come in lightweight fabrics that are ideal for warmer temperatures. A white color scheme provides a straightforward and simple strategy to help you transition away from fall and winter motifs.

Lighting & Mirrors

Your lighting options will help you add subtle color tones to your white bedroom linens, walls, and décor. Select lamps, chandeliers, sconces and other lighting fixtures that resemble the particular design theme you want to evoke in your bedroom. An all white minimalist bedroom would do well with a thin, tall stainless steel lamp, while a Cape Cod themed bedroom would look better with a wider, wooden or ceramic lamp.
For a streamlined overhead lighting option, consider recessed lights with adjustable brightness. The lighting fixtures should all be one color in silver, bronze, gray, or chrome. For elegant and traditional design themes, use chandeliers and sconces along with table lamps.

Layer several different types of light, and feel free to experiment with different bulbs. Try to avoid bright-white compact fluorescent lights, since these might overwhelm your already-white room. Instead, use a combination of LED lights, halogen bulbs, and natural lighting options to achieve varied effects throughout your room. Allow plenty of natural light to brighten you room, and use scented candles for extra sensory comfort.

White Furniture & Décor

Not every furniture or decorative item needs to be bright white. You should feel free to include other colors, especially if you plan on mixing up your color scheme every season. Usually, the best colors to choose are more subtle tones such as silver, beige, or other pastel shades. Even include a few bold colors if you would like. No matter what you choose, make sure that you do not select colors that can become dominant over the white. Additional colors should be extremely subtle and secondary to the overall white color. If you find a piece of furniture that you love, but isn't white (or even a lighter shade), consider purchasing it and painting it white. This vastly increases the amount of furniture available to place in your bedroom, and allows you the freedom of designing the perfect white or off white shade for beds, nightstands, tables, chairs, dressers and more.

White Floors

Carpets, hardwood floor, and natural stone are all ideal options for a white bedroom. No matter what material you choose, make sure that it is the lightest shade possible. Try tan or gray if you are installing wood or stone floors and cream colored if you are installing carpets. Keep in mind that some surfaces are easier to clean than others. Hardwood floors and natural stone are easier to wipe down than carpet; however, carpet is less prone to scratching from pets, accidents, and spills. Carpet is also less expensive to replace in the event of damage. Make sure that you choose a flooring material that complements your unique lifestyle.
White bedroom design doesn't have to be boring, overwhelming or even any one style. Create a white bedroom that reflects your personal style, and create a bright, relaxing space you enjoy night after night.

Modern Bedroom Design Ideas & Tips

Modern Design Principles

The basic idea of modern design is simplicity - investing in only the items that you need to achieve a comfortable living space. Above everything, modern designs make sense by keeping people organized and minimizing the potential for clutter. When you look at a modern room, you will see nothing but a clean and streamlined space.

If you're on a budget and a fan of modern designs, you're in luck because you won't need to invest in substantial décor or more furniture than you need. With a modern design on a budget, even the most common items have intrinsic beauty and artistic value. That means that you should think of your basic furniture - your dresser, bed, and chairs, as art. With the right combination of furniture, accessories, and color, you may not need any art or décor at all.
Bold colors and unusual geometric designs are also common elements in a modern bedroom. Get a chair or desk in an unusual shape, and avoid looks that appear traditional or ornate. In this design theme, you can easily use all manmade materials, such as plastics and metals to overemphasize the room's modern theme and help cut down on costs.
If you prefer wood, go for it! It's possible to find natural materials that complement a modern theme - you can always choose wood with a bright or bold paint such as black, white, or a vibrant shade of another color. If you like brown shades, you can counterbalance the natural look by emphasizing modern stylistic details through a mirror or stainless steel lamp. You can even overcome a natural look by choosing furniture items in abstract shapes.

Choose furniture from high end designers, or shop inventories of designer-inspired items. No matter your budget, a modern design provides a great opportunity for you to create a bedroom that showcases your distinct style. You don't need to follow any cookie cutter plans or room layout tips; instead, use your judgment to create a space that is right for you. Because modern furniture is so distinctive, it does not really require a specific arrangement within the room to fit the modern design theme.

Minimalism & Modern Design

For a modern bedroom, minimalism does not mean foregoing a bed or a chair. Instead, the style follows basic principles of efficiency. Use what you need - no more and no less. Instead of beautifying a room with superfluous décor, choose practical items that are themselves unique and beautiful. It may help to think of your bed, dresser, shelves, and chairs as art, so if you're especially adventurous, feel free to experiment with unusual designs and shapes.

A minimalist design approach will also help you keep your bedroom cleaner. Instead of becoming overwhelmed with clutter, surfaces remain spacious and will remain cleaner for two reasons: (1) they will be easier to wipe down, and (2) there will be fewer items accumulating dust. A modern bedroom is not only aesthetically pleasing and practical; it is also healthy, especially for people with asthma and allergies. If dust irritates you, you will notice an improvement with your breathing when your space is less cluttered.

Modern Design Layout

A modern design will help you create a layout that makes sense. Since minimalism is in important property of modern design, you'll only be buying what you need. As a result, you won't have to worry about overcrowding your space. Efficiency follows naturally from a modern design.
Be vigilant about the architecture of your home, and pay attention to size. You can make a small room beautiful, but it won't be aesthetically pleasing if you're cramming more stuff than can fit within four walls. Avoid buying something out of obligation because you feel that a room should have it. If it's too big, or if you don't need it, then it shouldn't be in the room.
Conversely, if you have a large room, the area may appear empty unless there is enough furniture to fill the space. Include enough furniture so that you can balance your large room with a cozy ambiance.
Make sure that you have enough space to walk around your room and access your belongings comfortably. You want to be able to enter and exit the room, get in and out of bed, and open and close drawers with ease. Make sure that you select furniture of an appropriate size for your space, and arrange it all in a way that allows you to accomplish everything that you will need from your bedroom. Otherwise, your room will slow you down by limiting your movement and potentially injuring you.

Modern Bedroom Décor

Bright colors, bold designs, abstract prints, and simplicity are characteristics of modern living spaces. Rather than investing in decorative items, view your everyday furniture and bedroom accessories as artistic. Bedrooms of all sizes will need a bed, dresser, mirror, and basic shelves for storage. If you have hardwood floors, you may also want a rug for comfort and traction. Pillows, lamps, floral arrangements and a few basic sculptures also work well in a room with a modern design. If you don't have a home office, you may also want a desk or chair in your bedroom.
Keep décor to a minimum, and be sensitive to the size and shape of your room before choosing furniture and accessories. Avoid overcrowding your space with more items than necessary; otherwise, your room won't look modern - it'll look chaotic. No matter what you choose to incorporate in your bedroom, aim for simplicity. To illustrate this concept, think of a chair that also doubles as abstract art. If necessary, use your bed sheets, rugs, and wall finishes for additional decorative elements.
Typically, modern room designs look best with strong, solid colors for walls and other decorative items. If you do choose patterns, select prints that are simple, spacious, and linear. Stick to one or two patterns, and avoid selecting prints that are chaotic. If you use patterns for your walls, leave your bed sheets solid and simple in a contrasting color. Similarly, if you use bed sheets with patterns, leave your walls a solid color. Any patterns that you use should be large instead of small and should overemphasize the room's modern motifs. For example, a great use of pattern on modern walls is thick, black and white stripes. However, you would want to avoid thin, curving lines, as this wall pattern will dramatically increase the appearance of clutter in the room.

Modern Bedroom Color Ideas

Typically, the colors in a modern bedroom are bold, vibrant, and bright. Some people choose to stick to a monochromatic color scheme in white, black, and gray, while other people incorporate details in bright and bold colors such as red, pink, green, blue, yellow, purple, or orange.

For an aesthetically pleasing space, you should select at least two colors and at most four, complementing bright tones with neutral shades. Examples of neutral colors include cream, white, gray, tan and black. Some shades of light, dark, and medium brown will also work depending on the other colors that you select.
If you choose prints, select abstract shapes that are linear instead of organic to overemphasize the linear design elements of a modern room. Another way to emphasize a room's modern design is to use man-made colors through furniture items that are made from materials such as stainless steel or glass. These materials can help counterbalance the look and feel of natural materials such as brown hardwood and other earthy tones.

Modern Furniture Design

In a modern bedroom, don't feel that you are restricted to man-made furniture items. While you may prefer items made from stainless steel or glass, you can also use various types of wood to give your bedroom a modern look and feel. Unless you overemphasize the other modern elements of your room, you may want to consider painting your furniture in a bold color such as black. Some furniture is already available in black or brown-black colors, so you won't need to do any painting.
Platform beds come in low-to-the-ground, simple designs and are available in twin, full, queen, or king sizes. If your room is large enough, get a bigger bed in a full, queen, or king size. If your room is small, or of you have a guest room, you may find it convenient to get a futon in a black metal or wooden frame instead of a bed. Futons easily convert from couches to beds with minimal effort, and when you need space, you can quickly fold them up. Matching bedroom sets are available, or you can mix things up if you would prefer to experiment with different styles. As a general rule for modern bedrooms, avoid furniture that is elaborate or ornate. Stick to very basic, rectangular and linear shapes to achieve a modern effect.

Modern Lighting

Modern bedrooms should be very bright to create a space that is functional and efficient. Incorporate a balance of natural and artificial light to achieve your desired brightness. Large windows, skylights, and sliding doors are all ideal lighting options for a modern bedroom. To darken your room during the day time, install blinds or curtains in a bold color.

Floor lamps and overhead lighting can help you accentuate your bedroom's modern theme. Choose metallic structures such as stainless steel or lights with a black or chrome finish. For overhead lighting, recessed lights are ideal, especially if you can install an electrical mechanism to control the brightness of the room.

Walls

For the most part, paint is your best option. You may choose to paint all of your walls in a matching color, or you may prefer one bold accent wall if your space is small. You may also enjoy the look and feel of accent trims that add slight contrast to the bold color in the room.
If you do opt for wall paper, try to select bold prints that won't overcrowd the room. Select prints that are linear with substantial negative space to maintain the bedroom's minimalist feel. When selecting wallpaper, stick to abstract prints that could double as artwork. Make sure that your wallpaper conforms to your bedroom's overall color scheme.

Floors

Bold, shiny, and light colored surfaces are ideal options for flooring in a modern bedroom. For added coziness, you may want to invest in a large rug. Otherwise, you may find that carpet clashes with the room's sleek look and feel. Carpet also becomes dirty easily and is difficult to maintain, but if you prefer carpet, try to choose a lighter color in a neutral shade. Hardwood flooring looks best in a modern room if it is light in color. If your budget is flexible, you may consider natural stone such as marble; although, you will most likely need a rug because this type of floor can become extremely cold. Make sure that you maintain the finish of your floor to preserve the shine. You may need to refinish your floors every year or every other year depending on how much traffic passes through your room.
Modern bedroom design is all about smooth, sleek furniture and bold colors. Select pieces that look artistic, but uncomplicated, and keep your color and fabric patterns to a minimum. Use bold colors like red, black or blue against at least one neutral to create a modern color scheme, and always remember to keep clutter to a minimum.